Can I unflatten a PDF after flattening?

No. Flattening is a permanent, one-way operation. The interactive elements are merged into the page and cannot be separated again. Always keep a copy of the original if you might need to edit fields later.

Will flattening remove my digital signature?

No. Digital signatures are preserved as visual elements in the flattened output. However, the cryptographic signature validation may no longer function since the document structure changes.

Does flattening change the visual appearance?

Not if done correctly. The flatten tool embeds elements exactly as they appear, so the PDF looks identical in all viewers.

Does it work with password-protected PDFs?

The PDF must not be locked for editing. Remove password protection first using the Unlock PDF tool, then flatten.

What happens to empty form fields?

Empty fields are also merged into the page. They will appear as blank areas — no longer interactive, but visually present.

Is there a file size limit?

There is no strict limit, but very large PDFs (100+ pages with embedded images) may take longer to process in your browser.

Can I flatten a PDF on mobile?

Yes. The tool works in any modern mobile browser without installing an app.

Flatten PDF Online for Free | 1984PDF

Flatten form fields and annotations in your PDF. Use 1984PDF to flatten pdf online for free with secure browser-based processing and no signup.

Flatten PDF is a free online tool from 1984PDF. Process your files instantly in your browser with no installation, no signup, and no watermarks. Your files are processed locally and never uploaded to our servers, ensuring complete privacy and security.

How to Flatten PDF Online with 1984PDF

Upload your file to use Flatten PDF: Click the upload area or drag and drop your file to start using Flatten PDF.
Choose options and start Flatten PDF: Select the settings you need and click the button to begin processing with Flatten PDF.
Wait while processing completes: Your file is processed securely in the browser. Wait a moment for it to finish.
Review output quality and formatting: Check the result to make sure everything looks correct before downloading.
Download and share your final file: Click the download button to save your processed file to your device.

Frequently Asked Questions about Flatten PDF

Can I unflatten a PDF after flattening?: No. Flattening is a permanent, one-way operation. The interactive elements are merged into the page and cannot be separated again. Always keep a copy of the original if you might need to edit fields later.
Will flattening remove my digital signature?: No. Digital signatures are preserved as visual elements in the flattened output. However, the cryptographic signature validation may no longer function since the document structure changes.
Does flattening change the visual appearance?: Not if done correctly. The flatten tool embeds elements exactly as they appear, so the PDF looks identical in all viewers.
Does it work with password-protected PDFs?: The PDF must not be locked for editing. Remove password protection first using the Unlock PDF tool, then flatten.
What happens to empty form fields?: Empty fields are also merged into the page. They will appear as blank areas — no longer interactive, but visually present.
Is there a file size limit?: There is no strict limit, but very large PDFs (100+ pages with embedded images) may take longer to process in your browser.
Can I flatten a PDF on mobile?: Yes. The tool works in any modern mobile browser without installing an app.

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